Introduction to GPS

Instruction Sheet

Let’s Learn GPS!

Instruction Sheet
OVERVIEW – Most young people are excited to learn about new technology. This training on
Global Positioning Systems (GPS) will help members learn what GPS is and how to use it. It will
also provide young people with an opportunity to develop skills like paying attention to details,
thinking on their feet, working as a team member, solving problems, making decisions, and
contributing to a group. All youth will be beginners and learn through a hands-on experience.

OBJECTIVES:
1. To learn what GPS is and how it works
2. To learn to use a GPS receiver
3. To select waypoints using a GPS receiver
4. To find waypoints using a GPS receiver
5. To recognize how GPS can impact society

INTENDED AUDIENCE:
This Global Positioning Systems (GPS) training packet is designed for 4-H members in
grades 4-12. Many of these youth will already know that there are many uses for technology.
This training will provide young people with an opportunity to develop skills like paying
attention to details, thinking on their feet, working as a team member, solving problems, making
decisions, and contributing to a group.

PRIOR KNOWLEDGE
• Youth and instructors will have basic computer knowledge
• Youth and instructors will have Internet searching skills
• Instructor should read through these instructions and practice using the GPS units prior to
the training

MATERIALS NEEDED
• Computers with Internet access (needed to complete the “What is GPS?” handout)
• Computer with PowerPoint
• GPS Units
• AA Batteries
• Teaching packet
• What is GPS? Handout – copies for members
• How to Use a GPS Receiver handout
• Copies of Pre and Post tests
• Note paper and pencils
• Treats or prizes
• Scavenger Hunt handouts

1 Linda Hauge
NDSU Extension Service
11/9/2009
 Introduction to GPS
Instruction Sheet

PRIOR TO MEMBERS ARRIVING

• Check GPS Units to make sure they have charged batteries
• Check computers to make sure that they are all working

SUGGESTED PROCEDURE
1. Have members answer the questions on the pretest
2. Have members work in teams of 2 or 3
3. Using the computers the members will search the Internet for the answers to the
“What is GPS?” handout
4. When members have finished, review the answers to this handout
5. Go through “Where Am I?” PowerPoint
6. Give each group a GPS unit
7. Review the “How to Use a GPS Receiver” handout
8. Follow these instructions step by step indoors before they go outside
9. Give each group the “Scavenger Hunt” handout, note pad, pencil, and treats or prizes
10. Review these instructions
11. Send the groups off to set three waypoints, giving them a set time to return to the
starting point
12. Ask each group to leave a note at one waypoint, a treat at another and a prize or note
at the third waypoint (You might want to number the groups and have them include
their number on the note or treat)
13. After all groups return, have them exchange GPS units with another group (Let them
know which groups notes they are looking for)
14. Send them off to find the waypoints and notes, treats or prizes
15. Set a return time for the members to return to the starting point
16. Discuss their experience with GPS
17. Be sure all GPS units are turned off and returned to the trunk
18. Have members answer the questions on the posttest

AFTER THE MEETING

• Turn off computers (if instructed and/or used)
• Inventory the GPS resource trunk
• Return the GPS resource trunk
• Return teaching packet with the GPS units
• Inform the NDSU Extension Distribution Center or the Morton County Extension Office
of any problems with the equipment

2 Linda Hauge
NDSU Extension Service
11/9/2009